Note, I have a language disability so there will be writing mistakes

My boyfriend and I are new owners of a 6-ish month, 6-8" young ball python.

we have a 53 gal tank

100 infared heat bulb with 150 light fixture (also have heat mat, tank is on marble so switch is safe)

mesh top with clips

Paper towel substrate

4 hides, 1 skull hot side, 1 generic hut cool side, plastic container and paper toilet tube middle

large but shallow ceramic water dish

we use an infa red thermomiter

humidity where we live is at the right level but we'll still be getting humidifier and humidity measurement asap

(photos when I get on a computer)

Questions;
1. We currently keep the tank in our bedroom which has blackout curtains over shut blinds full time. We love the infa red light. Does our snake need regular light? Can we stay dark full time?

2. Our snake is spending time in the corner of the tank curled with head out. Is this a sign of stress? Resources on snake stress are needed.

3. Do we need to devide the tank to give him a smaller environment? If so will he ever need the full size?

4. Can the cat be in the room with the snake in the tank? What about just at night so we can sleep with our cat?

5. Any advice for first time owners?